"Kastine makes big plays," teammate A'dia Mathies said. "She hustles every second she's on the court. We ran a play and the play is designed for anyone who's open. She had no fear in letting that three go."

Kentucky led 62-60 at the time.

"She's unbelievable in those moments," Kentucky coach Matthew Mitchell said. "She's made so many of those. I was not surprised and I was elated and very happy we needed a bucket."

Delaware and its rooting section raised the din inside Webster Bank Arena. Until Evans silenced the place, saved for the Kentucky fans, led by her mom, dad and brother, R.J., who played for the UConn men this season.

"We want to make history for our school," Evans said. "We want to bring back something back to Kentucky besides men's basketball."

Evans missed her first four shots, but finished with eight points, two rebounds and two steals.

Sources: Buckeyes had interest in Auriemma

Industry sources said that UConn coach Geno Auriemma, who extended his contract five more years for more than $10 million at UConn this week, was the first choice for the vacant Ohio State job.

Auriemma was not offered, although a UConn source confirmed Ohio State's interest. Ohio State officials were prepared to offer "an open checkbook" to Auriemma, according to sources.

Several other candidates have emerged since Auriemma extended his deal at UConn.

m.dimauro@theday.com

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